The maintenance or protection of something, especially abstract values, rights, or conditions.
example
Die Wahrung des Friedens ist das oberste Ziel der diplomatischen Bemühungen.
The safeguarding of peace is the highest goal of diplomatic efforts.
Usage tips
Word family
'Die Wahrung' (the safeguarding) is the noun corresponding to the verb 'wahren' (to preserve/safeguard). 'Wahren' means to protect or preserve something, for example peace, a secret, or one's dignity.
EXAMPLE
Er versuchte, unter Druck die Ruhe zu wahren.
He tried to keep calm under pressure.
Use with genitive
The noun 'Wahrung' (safeguarding) is almost always used with a genitive that indicates what is being protected or maintained. This structure is typical of formal or official language.
EXAMPLE
Die Wahrung der Menschenrechte ist eine wichtige Aufgabe.
The safeguarding of human rights is an important task.
Typical collocations
'Wahrung' (safeguarding) is used for the protection of abstract values and rights. Typical combinations are 'die Wahrung der Interessen' (the safeguarding of interests), 'die Wahrung der Privatsphäre' (the protection of privacy), or 'die Wahrung der Tradition' (the preservation of tradition).
EXAMPLE
Datenschutz dient der Wahrung der Privatsphäre aller Bürger.
Data protection serves to safeguard the privacy of all citizens.
Register
The word 'Wahrung' (safeguarding) belongs to elevated written language and is often used in official, political, or legal texts. It is rare in everyday colloquial speech.
EXAMPLE
In dem Vertrag geht es um die Wahrung der Firmengeheimnisse.
The contract concerns the safeguarding of company secrets.
Compare with
near_synonym
Wahrung vs Schutz
protection
'der Schutz' and 'die Wahrung' can both mean that something should not be violated or damaged. 'Schutz' is very general and fits people, things, nature, or rights. 'Wahrung' is used more for abstract things such as rights, interests, peace, or dignity. The word sounds more formal and often means that a state or condition is maintained. In everyday language, 'Schutz' is usually more natural. 'Wahrung' fits better in official or factual texts.
Wahrung
Bei der Beratung achtet die Firma auf die Wahrung der Kundendaten.
During the consultation, the company pays attention to safeguarding customer data.
Schutz
Am Strand braucht die Haut guten Schutz vor der Sonne.
At the beach, skin needs good protection from the sun.